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Description
Origanum Dictamnus, commonly known as Dittany of Crete, is an aromatic perennial herb that is native to the mountains of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for centuries. Origanum Dictamnus is a small, bushy plant that grows up to 30cm in height, with woody stems and small, oval-shaped leaves. Its flowers are pink or purple and bloom in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Origanum |
Appearance
Origanum Dictamnus has small, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and grow up to 2cm in length. Its stems are woody and grow up to 30cm in height. The plant produces pink or purple flowers that bloom in late summer and have a delicate, sweet scent. Origanum Dictamnus is a bushy plant that is best suited for container gardening or as an edging plant in a garden bed.
Care Guide
Origanum Dictamnus is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Origanum Dictamnus is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Origanum Dictamnus is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Origanum Dictamnus is native to the mountains of Crete, Greece, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil. It is often found growing in the wild in dry, rocky areas and is well adapted to hot, dry climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Origanum Dictamnus be grown indoors?
A: Origanum Dictamnus is best grown outdoors in full sun exposure. It can be grown in a container indoors, but will require bright, direct sunlight.
Q: Can Origanum Dictamnus be used in cooking?
A: Yes, Origanum Dictamnus has a strong, spicy flavor and can be used in cooking to add flavor to meat dishes, soups, and stews.
Q: Is Origanum Dictamnus toxic to pets?
A: Origanum Dictamnus is not toxic to pets, but may cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Origanum Dictamnus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Origanum Dictamnus can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Origanum Majorana
- Origanum Vulgare
- Thymus Vulgaris
- Rosmarinus Officinalis
References
- “Origanum dictamnus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l560.
- “Origanum dictamnus.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Origanum+dictamnus.
- “Origanum dictamnus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14904/Origanum-dictamnus/Details.
